It's All About the Girls! It's Ladies Night!

It's about time a girl wins this show! I'm ready to see the girls rock it out!
(P.S. I found some really cool photos showcasing the girls' outfits last week. If you like fashion and want to know more about some great looks, go to http://shopspotbyhayley.blogspot.com/)


Songs From The Year They Were Born

Candice: "Straight Up" by Paula Abdul in 1989 - 7
Candice has such a high level of musicality. She has a such a smooth voice and and can vocalize and create runs with such ease. I didn't think this was as up to par as her past performances but she really did a great job. I agree with Randy that the arrangement of the song made it feel more current than 1989.

Janelle: "When I Call Your Name" by Vince Gill in 1989 - 8
You can definitely tell that Janelle feels at home with her guitar and some old country music. And you can for sure hear her country twang when she sings. I like it. Again, I don't think this is her best performance, but I give her a lot of credit for having such confidence.

Kree: "She Talks to Angels" by The Black Crowes in 1990 - 9
Not that Kree doesn't have fun and have personality on stage, but during this performance I could tell it more. I honestly don't know how to "critique" Kree anymore. She is so freaking good. Randy commented on her natural ability and her natural blues undertones, which you get from Kree in every performance.

Angie: "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders in 1994 - 7
I don't know if she was nervous because she was dedicating the song to those in Boston, but she sounded very off key to me. I also could point out where she was enunciating every single word where it didn't need to be SO precise. Definitely not my favorite performance by her by far.... but the judges gave it a standing ovation? So that's weird.

Amber: "Without You" by Mariah Carey (cover) in 1994 - 7
Boring!!!! And I also couldn't understand some of her words. She picked it up in the second half of the song, but it still wasn't my favorite. The last note sounded a little flat, too. I did not think it was as beautiful as Keith thought. I know everyone has not been impressed with Nicki this season, but I totally get where she is coming from when she was talking about the low notes and having no feeling at the beginning. I thought the same thing --> no emotion = boring.

Diva Songs

Candi G: "When You Believe" by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston - 10
One of my all time favorite songs!!!! She brought me to tears. =) While I think that her best performance was "I Who Have Nothing" a few weeks ago, she killed it tonight. I feel like I've said this a million times but this sounded like her winning/final performance. Really, really good.

Jazelle: "Dumb Blonde" by Dolly Parton - 6
Of course Janelle would be singing Dolly. I think she tried to create a new arrangement so the song would sound current, but to me it just sounded weird. It was sort of rock, but had her country twang, and it was too soft and times and too strong at times. I don't know, I didn't like it. She sang it well for what she was working with, but I think the arrangement ruined it.

Hug Life: "Have You Ever Been in Love" by Celine Dion - 9.5
Kree got a standing ovation if that tells you how she did. Mariah brought up a good point. I knew the song sounded just a smidge off for my taste. It's because it didn't have that bluesy, soulful essence that Kree normally possesses, but she still rocked it.

A-Millz: "Halo" by Beyonce - 9
I am pleasantly surprised about how well Angie did with this song. She truly did sound like a diva pop-star. She put forth a lot of effort and it really turned out well in her favor. She had so many good "moments" in that song. The standing ovation was well deserved. This was the song where Angie could focus on her "clarity" (in the words of Mariah) and pronunciation.

Amberessence: "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life" by Barbara Streisand - 8
The song itself bored me, but her performance was so good. It was so elegant and 1950-ish. It was so unlike her normal performances. She was stunning and the judges all loved her.

My votes are for Kree this week. Normally I would vote for two or three people, but I wasn't overly thrilled with anyone else's performances. Sorry girls!!!

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)

Do I See a Top 5 of Girls in the Near Future?

Can I just say that I am very, very upset that Burnell went home last week? That is unacceptable. America, you are dumb. Judges, you are dumber for not using the save. But I'm not here to blog about what should have happened. Let's find out how everyone did tonight.


Round One: Bacharach and David songs
Angie: Anyone Who Had a Heart - 7
How do you judge a song that you don't know?? I think she has an awesome voice, but the song seemed a little forced

Amber: I Say a Little Prayer - 6
For being an up-tempo-ish song, I don't feel that she put enough pep into it. Her stage presence was almost non-existent.
How the hell did Nicki love that????

Lazaro: (They Long to Be) Close to You - 1
I literally did not understand a single word in that song. That was awful. Just as awful as his outfit (green and grey print matching suit). The performance was: boring, slow, awful, pitiful.

Kree: What the World Needs Now - 8
She has an unfair advantage because this is a better known song, but the other contestants could have not picked stupid songs. Kree's performance is not as good as I had anticipated, but A. it is the best so far, and B. it did pick up in the middle of the song.

Janelle: I'll Never Fall in Love Again - 8.5
That by far was the most upbeat song tonight. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't really critique her performance, I just think it was light, airy, and cute!

Candice: Don't Make Me Over - 9.5
This girl is freaking amazing. I've never heard that song before (like other contestants) but I wasn't bored (unlike other contestants). She made that song new and not old fashioned. Even though the song was slow, it wasn't boring. This was refreshing.

Seriously everything I thought, the judges thought the opposite (except with Candice!). I don't like it.

Round Two: Songs I Wish I Would Have Written
Angie: Love Came Down by Kari Jobe - 8
I think she has a beautiful voice, but sometimes seems like she is shouting. I'm not for sure if this is a Christian song or not, but it sounds like it, and it Angie sounds like she could make a Christian album. It just has that something about it that sets it apart from other music.

Amber: Love on Top by Beyonce - 8
This performance seemed fake to me. It was not my favorite.

Lazaro: Angels by Robbie Williams - 8
He finally acted like he knew what he was doing. It was good, but he can't even be compared to the girls.

Kree: Help Me Make It Through the Night by Kris Kristofferson - 10
Let her win right now. Right. Now. Whenever Kree performs it's like a guest performance from a current artist. Winner right here. There is no way this girl won't be in the Final Two. It was so beautiful.

Janelle: The Dance by Garth Brooks - 8
I really enjoyed her performance and voice, but a lot of her notes were kind of flat. Otherwise, it was great.

Candice: Lovesong by The Cure - 10
My God. I have no words for how wonderful that was. Keith bowed down to her, so that's cool. I think Mariah baptised her? This song really didn't sound like Candice, but holy cow, she made this song her own. She did some crazy high notes but added her signature deep voice. Best performance or the night, of the season, and probably of the show.

Clearly I'm voting for Candice and Kree.
You should too. And definitely not for Lazaro.

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)

Rockin' Their Way to the Top

It's been awhile since I've been able to blog and watch Idol at the same time! Seems like I'm starting this blogging project all over again.

This week I will rate the contestants on a 1-10 scale. I normally do this every week when I watch the show throughout the seasons. I am a little too addicted to this show....

Burnell: "You Give Love a Bad Name" by Aerosmith -- 8
I could tell that he was uncomfortable singing outside his genre. The judges commented on that as well. One piece of advice that makes total sense is to make it his own. He sang the original song, but he could have changed the arrangement to make it original to him.

Kree: "Piece of My Heart" by Janice Joplin -- 9
Kree can do no wrong. Period. I got the goosies. Whoop Whoop! The judges all thought she did "magnificent" too! Wonderful voice, wonderful performance!

Janelle: "You Make Me Right" by Billy Joel -- 7.5
I normally really like Janelle, but this week I felt a little bored. It was not a boring song, but compared to her past performances, I didn't like it as well. But all the judges liked it and thought she has been the one contestant that has progressed through each round.



Lazaro: "We Are the Champions" by Queen -- 5
Luckily he remembered all the words this time. I just thought it sounded like a mediocre karaoke song.

Candice: "I Can't Get No Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stone -- 10
Aside from her amazing vocals, that was the best performance of any of the contestants. She was so natural and fluid on stage that it seemed like she was at her own concert.

Amber: "What About Love" by Heart -- 9
I really liked it because while this is a rock song, she made it her own by making it R&B and adding a lot of runs and vocalizing more. She sort of turned it into a ballad which really worked for her. Nicki complimented her on her believability.

Angie: "Bring Me to Life" by Evanescence -- 10
I LOVE her voice! I think at the beginning of the season, she got on my nerves. But each week I like her more and more. The judges didn't love it as much as I did saying she needs to feel the song. I thought she did, but what do I know?!

(Left to right: Burnell Taylor, Candice Glover, Angie Miller, Amber Holcomb, Janelle Arthur, Lazaro Arbos, and Kree Harrison)

 

 

My votes this week are for Kree, Candice and Angie. Who are you voting/did you vote for???

I want to know what you thought of the performances!!!

 



Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages) 



The Idols Take on The Beatles

First thought when I realized it was Beatles Week: "I hate Beatles Week!" I may be one of the few who do NOT like the Beatles. I do like some of their songs, but I like them with a modern twist. Hopefully that's what we'll see tonight!



Kree Harrison: "With a Little Help From My Friends"
Every time I hear Kree sing, it just sounds so effortless. This rendition was just marvelous. The judges commented on her "Kree-ness" and her confidence.

Burnell Taylor: "Let It Be"
Burnell has the most unique voice ever. It sounds a little weird with this song. Not weird, just unfamiliar. It turned out pretty good.
-caress, raspy, smart choices, genuine, consistent, recognizable, soulful. Just a few words the judges used to describe the performance.

Amber Holcomb: "She's Leaving Home"
The beginning was a little rough and too slow for me, but once she got into the swing of things I thought it was beautiful. I liked when she hit the high and long notes.
Pretty much Randy said the exact same thing I did.

Lazaro Arbos: "In My Life"
His performance wasn't boring by any means, but there really was nothing special about it.
The judges critiqued him on his tone/range and attitude/confidence. They weren't too harsh in my opinion, but it looked like Lazaro was just bust out crying. He did shed a few on stage, but I bet he goes backstage and just starts bawling.

Candice Glover: "Come Together"
It seemed like everyone loved it, but I thought she was kind of screaming the song instead of singing. Apparently I don't know what I'm talking about because the judges are just going on and on and on about how wonderful her big voice is.

Paul Jolley: "Eleanor Rigby"
I thought this performance was really good and I could hear this on the radio.
Again, I'm different than the judges. Nicki hated it and said it was forgettable. Randy said it was only good when he hit the sweet spot, but it was too safe.

Angie Miller: "Yesterday"
Wonderful. That's the only thing I can say. While her voice doesn't sound at all like Adele, that song sounds similar to what Adele's album, 19, sounded like. I loved it, 100%.
Randy compared her to Haley from Paramore and that so makes sense.

Devin Velez: "The Long and Winding Road"
Got the goosies! In the intro Devin said he wanted to tap into Brian McKnight, well I certainly felt that! That almost made my stomach hurt I liked it so much.
Basically, they judges loved it.

Janelle Arthur: "I Will"
Janelle kind of gets on my nerves, but I thought that was pretty good. She sounded so modern and added her own little country flare to it.
Go figure, Nicki is OBSESSED with Janelle. It will the a special day when she isn't obsessed with someone.

My votes will be for: Kree, Angie, and Devin.
Who are you voting for?!
I predict that Lazaro will be going home.
We will see the final results tomorrow night!

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)

Top 10: Songs of the Idols

I guess Wednesday's and Thursday's have not been a good time for me to sit and watch American Idol. I have not been able to see the show live in I don't know how long. This week I missed the performances because I went to watch the Columbia College Cougars play in Kansas City; a good choice on my part. Because no more basketball will interfere with the show, hopefully I will be able to watch and report again without having to wait a week to do so.

I still haven't see the show but have found another blog that actually has the performances on it! I think that is super exciting and I can't wait to find the time to watch them. ricky.org: Top 10 Performance Show

And here is a blog that showed the results: TV Line: Top 10 Results Recap

I am sad to see my fellow Missourian leave the show, but he definitely wasn't my favorite anyway.


Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

Meet the Top 10

During last night's show we were introduced to Season 12's Top 10.

We will be seeing Lazaro Arbos, Amber Holcomb, Paul Jolley, Curtis Finch, Jr., Janelle Arthur, Candice Glover, Angie Miller, Burnell Taylor, Devin Velez, and Kree Harrison next week and also during the summer tour.

Be sure to follow their official Idol Twitter handles:
@LazaroAI12
@AmberAI12
@PaulJolleyAI12
@CurtisAI12
@JanelleAI12
@CandiceAI12
@AngieAI12
@BurnellAI12
@DevinAI12
@KreeAI12

And sadly we have to say goodbye to Elijah Liu, Aubrey Cleland, Nick Boddington, Adriana Latonio, Breeana Steer, Cortez Shaw, Zoanette Johnson, Charlie Askew, Vincent Powell, and Teena Torres. Luckily one of these people will be lucky enough to go on the summer tour with the Top 10.

 

I'm not totally thrilled with the contestants that made it through, but most of my favorites got in and I think this will be a good season. I am going to go out on a limb and say that I think a girl will win this season. It's been 6 years since a girl has won, so it's long overdue. I would like to see Kree win. Seeing that the few past winners have been kind of folk-y, country-ish, and rock-ish. Kree has infused those three into one and I think that is just the perfect combo. But, we will see in 10 weeks who the winner is!

 

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the contestants!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)



The One that Counts: Road to the Top 10

Of course another week where I missed the girls night! I can't catch a break! I'm just too busy supporting my college basketball teams, ok? Their games cannot be DVRed and replayed like Idol can. =)

--But on with the show--

Elijah Liu: "Stay" by Rihanna
one word: boring.
The judges were not in love with the performance, but liked it a whole lot better than I did. His performance and singing was flat and just bland.

Cortez Shaw: "Locked Out of Heaven" by Bruno Mars
Not the best performance, but he looks like he is having a ton of fun which really translates to the audience. Not as good as Mars' because it wasn't as raspy, but it was good nonetheless.
All of the judges agree that they really like him, but that was not the best song choice to suit his style.

Charlie Askew: "Mama" by Genesis
Ponytail???? This kid never ceases to amaze me, whether good or bad. I don't know that song, but I think he did good. He was very into it.
Well, obviously I don't know what is going on because the judges were just confused, didn't like it, and felt disconnected.

Nick Boddington: "I Just Want You to Know Who I Am" by the Goo Goo Dolls
I honestly didn't know what this song was when he first started singing, but I really liked it after he got into the chorus. Bravo! Sounded like a real-life, I-can-hear-this-on-the-radio song.
The judges all commented on the piano and how he was in a comfort zone. Some liked it, others didn't. For me, I did; I loved it.

Burnell Taylor: "I'm Here" from The Color Purple
From the first glance, Burnell looked like an 80's hip hop guy with his jean jacket. But, whoa, he has a super duper, soulful voice! That was so inspirational and really good!
The judges loved it and Keith gave him a standing O.

Top Row: Elijah Liu, Paul Jolley, Nick Boddington, Cortez Shaw

Middle Row: Devin Velez, Curtis Finch, Jr.

Bottom Row: Burnell Taylor, Vincent Powell, Lazaro Arbos, Charlie Askew

Paul Jolley: "I'm Just a Fool" by Christina Aguilera ft. Blake Shelton
I think that he has a good voice, but just like always he tried too hard. He said he wants to be the guy version of Taylor (Swift). I now dislike him on principle.
The judges were all over the place. Keith didn't think it was believable, Nicki loved it, Randy like the beginning and the low/soft voice and disliked the ending where it was too forced, and Mariah was just Mariah and didn't really say anything of importance and just rambled.

Lazaro Arbos: "Feeling Good" by Nina Simone
Oops, I was on the phone during this performance. From what I could hear, I was REALLY good.
Each of the judges loved it, and Randy even said, this early in the game, he is in it to win it.

Curtis Finch, Jr.: "I Believe I Can Fly" by R. Kelly
Nothing beats the original version. Curtis always brings his gospel background to every song he sings. If that's what you like, you'll love him. For me, it's a bit much.
Everyone loved it. Especially Nicki. She gave her two cents about needing the Lord and how Curtis has a calling.

Devin Velez: "It's Impossible (Somos Novios)" by Armando Manzanero
Even though I have no idea what the hell he is singing when he sings in Spanish, I could listen to it all the day long. Way good.
Nicki said it was muy bein and gordo... but actually not fat. Randy said he loves Devin's tone, and he NEVER says that. Overall, the judges loved it.

Vincent Powell: "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men
He sounds like he is the long lost Boy from Boyz II Men, sounds just like one of them. And did you hear that high note?
The judges didn't think it was so good, and said it wasn't his best performance and overdid it. =(

Tomorrow night we will see who goes to the next round, back to Hollywood. 5 will go, 5 will stay.

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts! Let me know what you think of the performances, too. Who do you like, dislike, or just want to "have their babies" like Nicki? I want to know!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)

Guys' Sudden Death!! (Week 2)

     Well this has been a very hectic week and, of course, I missed the live shows AGAIN. Thank goodness I was able to have my good ol' parents DVR this week's shows. I will be writing about just the boys for this week. Instead of giving a recap of what the judges think, I will be giving you a little insight to my family's opinions as they watch with me.

Mathenee Treco: "A Little Less Conversation" by Elvis
   This guy is definitely an entertainer. His vocals were not the best I've ever heard, but he had so much energy and feeling! All in all I thought it was great! My mom, Tricia, totally agrees with me and thought it was very good.

Gupreet Sighn Sarin a.k.a. "The Turbanator": "Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" by James Morrison
   When he came on the stage Mom said "I can't take him seriously" and my dad, Richie, said "It's time for him to go." I agree. It was: very karaoke, flat, and boring. Now, I said I wasn't giving the judges opinions, but Hello! Both Randy and Nicki told him he sucked, basically. I would bet he doesn't go through.

Vincent Powell: "Because I Love You" by Lenny Williams
   Vincent is a worship leader and it sure shows. This had so much soul and passion. But at one point his notes were so high I didn't even know what he was saying. Mom goes, "this can't get over soon enough." At first I thought it started out well, but by the middle, I was with my mom.

Nick Boddingtion: "Say Something Nice" by Donna Summer
   This has been a better performance than the last two, but it's very boring. It was very easy to listen to, but it wasn't great. As Randy would say, "there weren't any moments." However, my mom wasn't as nice as me because she didn't like it at all.

Josh Holiday: "Better With You" by Josh Holiday
   Well first of all, I love a boy that can play the piano so that makes him good automatically. Even though Josh was trying to make it in Nashville, I think he sounds very pop-y. But that's ok. I think he sounds like Ferras. I thought that was fairly good, but the very last note was AWFUL. I don't think my mom liked. She started fast forwarding through it during the middle. Of course I yelled at her.

Top Left: Josh Holiday, Bottom Left: David Oliver Willis, Middle Gupreet Sighn Sarin, Top Right: Mathenee Treco, Bottom Right: Bryant Tadeo

David Oliver Willis: "Fever" by Peggy Lee
   The look is so 1970's, but the sound is so...not. I've never heard this song performed with a guitar like this. I know that is so vague, but I have no idea about musical terms. My apologies. I do think this is a very original arrangement though. I am very on the fence about this performance. Mom thinks the same and says "I'm just not very interested in it." I think my dad lost interest (in the show not particularly this song) because I hear him snoring.

Bryant Tadeo: "New York State of Mind" by Billy Joel
   Three notes into the song I hear "I love it already." Best performance by far, I actually got the goosies (aka what previous judge, Jennifer Lopez, called goosebumps). That was just such a wonderful, smooth, easy, beautiful performance. And during the last three notes I hear "That was almost perfect." I do agree, Mother, I do agree.

Burnell Taylor: "This Time" by John Legend
   His voice sounded very young to me, but overall I thought it was pretty good. Like I keep saying, I don't know much about music, but it must have been good because the whole audience gave him a standing ovation. I think he has a fair shot at going through. It wasn't a smooth, buttery performance like some of the other competitors, but it had a lot of emotion and pep in it.

Lazaro Arbos: "Tonight I Want to Cry" by Keith Urban
   I still can't get over how this kid has such a bad stutter but can sing so clearly. I thought earlier in the season that he was super good. But tonight I don't like his super deep voice. I guess I'm just comparing it to Keith's version, but do you blame me? That didn't cut it for me. Well, my mom loves him and showed a little bias. Even though she didn't "love" it, it wasn't "horrible." Yeah, pretty much.

Cortez Shaw: "Titanium" by David Guetta
   I did not expect the high voice that came out with he sang. I guess it's been awhile since I heard his voice. I love, love, love that he enunciated every word. I hate when everything gets jumbled together like others do. I thought that the slower arrangement was really good, and I liked that he chose to showcase the piano. Mom and I both agree that we liked it.

Who Made It Through:
1. Vincent Powell
2. Lazaro Arbos
3. Cortez Shaw
4. Burnell Taylor
5. Nick Boddigton

Yet again I am astonished at some of the people they sent home. It never fails. But I am happy with a select few of the guys that got through. Hopefully on Wednesday I can actually watch live and not be surprised at what everyone sounds like!

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts!

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

(photos pulled from American Idol Official Twitter and Facebook pages)

Sudden Death: The First 10 Guys' One Shot

I feel so out of place! I haven't written a post in a while because I haven't been able to watch the show live. So tonight I feel like I'm getting to see these guys for the very first time.

First up is....

Paul Jolley: "Tonight I Want to Cry" by Keith Urban
I though that Paul was trying too hard. He definitely has the potential to be super good, but I guess the confidence wasn't there, so he was trying to prove it. Throughout the song, he had solid vocals but I thought the last few notes were pitchy.
Keith - agreed that he doesn't need to overcompensate. Just stick with his solid vocals.
Nicki - she felt that the song was a little understated for him and during the performance she said his eyes were too theatrical.
Randy - He also thought that the end notes were sharp. He thought that Paul has a full range and was capable of performing all types of genres.

Johnny Keyser: "I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz
Again, I thought he was kind of forcing the song. Once he hit the chorus, though, it sounded more natural and he became more comfortable on stage.
K - "Best you've sung." He also said the performance sounded effortless.
N - said that Johnny showed no nerves and was relaxed
R - just an ok performance

JDA: "Rumor Has It" by Adele
I thought he started off very well, but through the middle and end sounded pretty nasally and I didn't care for it. After seeing him sprawl out on the floor, it was just too dramatic and theatrical.
K - liked his originality but didn't like how he could feel that every move was planned.
N - called him a "superstar performer" she liked his organic feel with the audience. Even though she liked the performance, she also thought that the vocals weren't very good and were a little whiny.
R - thought he was way too keyed in on the performance and didn't pay enough attention to the vocals. He agreed with Keith and thought that there was no originality in his moves on stage.
Mariah - She disagreed with everyone and thought that there was no wavering in his voice at all.

Kevin Harris: "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" by Bryan Adams
During auditions and Hollywood Week everyone called him "Butter" and I definitely understand why. Even though I thought his voice sounded like the male version of Wanda Sykes (yes, I know that is weird), I could hear so much emotion. It was just beautiful.
K - thought he had a crazy range, but had mixed emotions. Even thought it sounded like he was all over the place, he was just showcasing what he can do.
N - "every choice was perfection" She loved his control, vibrato, and falsetto. To her, Kevin was the first boy that she thought "yes, 100%"
R - He was the opposite of Nicki. He disagreed 100%. Randy was bored with the song and thought it sounded like karaoke.
M - she said he was a born singer but should have picked a better song.

Chris Watson: "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding
All I could here at the beginning of the song was a really bad Chris Brown.
K - Keith said that the show should be a "connection competition." He said Chris' voice was not good and he should have picked a better song. Although, Keith thought Chris had a lot of confidence.
N - she said that Chris was the prettiest man she had ever seen. She also wants to marry his vibrato.
R - Randy loves him as a person, but not so much vocally.
M - She was a little vague but said he was so triumphant and had tons of charisma

Top Row: Jimmy Smith, Charlie Askew, Kevin Harris, Curtis Finch, Jr., Chris Watson

Bottom Row: Johnny Keyser, Elijah Liu, Devin Velez, JDA, Paul Jolley

Devin Velez: "Listen" by Beyonce
I really liked how he enunciated every word. It almost sounded like a finale performance it was that good.
K - thought Devin made a connection with his voice.
N - thought he made a smart choice by singing part of the song in Spanish.
R - said he liked how Devin took the time to sing and had a great arrangement.
M - She could tell that he was critiquing himself at the end.

Elijah Liu: "Talking to the Moon" by Bruno Mars
You could definitely tell he was young; he has such a young voice. I thought he kind of got lost and off key in the ooooooh's and the aaaahhhhhhh's throughout the song.
K - good song choice but a shaky performance. Thought he looked like a relevant pop star.
N - "super-duper star" ...she wants to have his babies... She would sign him today because he has such a marketable face and voice.
R - He thought Elijah did not have a great voice and did not feel any great moments.
M - She disagreed and thought he had control in his falsetto and softer voice.

Charlie Askew: "Rocketman" by Elton John
You could for sure see the nerves running through him. I was kind of on the fence about this kid. It sounded like he'd been doing this all his entire life, but also it didn't have a star quality to it.
K - "What the hell?" there was a lot of originality and "I bet no one left the TV."
N - he is the the most interesting and smartest person on the show. His awkwardness and weirdness excites her.
M - She thought that other moments for him were more unique.

Jimmy Smith: "Raining on Sunday" by Keith Urban
I thought this was a very good performance but didn't have anything too special to it.
N - good vocals but she was a little bored
R - he also thought it was boring
M - Mariah has been fighting for him all along. She felt the pressure of the night on Jimmy but thinks that there is something about him that America should see.

Curtis Finch, Jr.: "Don't You Remember" by Luther Vandross
It was so dramatic that all I could hear was the Cowardly Lion from the Wizard of Oz. But he did have a very wide range that was impressive.
K - it was really beautiful, but some parts were over-performed
N - he always takes the competition to another level
R - thinks he is one of the best, but needs to keep it young
M - Curtis' performance moved her to tears, but thinks he needs to loosen up and relax.

After the performances the judges debated to pick the five guys that will move on.
They are:
1. Curtis Finch, Jr.
2. Elijah Liu
3. Paul Jolley
4. Charlie Askew
5. Devin Velez

Next week we'll get to see the next groups of 10 of the girls and guys!

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts!

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Hollywood Week: The Girls (Night 1)

With many more girls than guys, the judges made quick and frequent cuts right in the beginning starting with the lines of 10 singing a capella.

Line One:
-Angela Miller: I didn't recognize the song but I thought she did very good. She has a sound that would you can imagine being on the radio. She made it through to the next round.
-Victoria Acosta: Killing Me Softly - since she sings mariachi, she was made to sing a song with so much emotion. There was one little part in the middle that she missed, but she recovered. She, too, made it through.
-Mariah Pulice: Gravity - I thought she sounded way nasaly and off key. Obviously the judges agreed because they sent her home.

County Girls:
-Rachel Hale: Nicki says she has a quality that is so relatable, but I don't see it. I think she is kind of fake. She pulled me to her side at the very end of her song, but I didn't care for it that much.
-Janelle Arthur: At first I thought she was pretty fake, too. But once she started singing I thought she was genuine and had a beautiful tone.
Both girls get to continue. Way to represent Country!

Judge Favorites:
Candace Glover: If this were the finale, she would win. Hands down.
Megan Miller: Titanium - I didn't like her personality when she first auditions, but this girl can sing!
But only Candace made it though while Megan was sent home.

Isabelle: This one named girl sings with a little attitude and a lot of soul. Of course she made it through!

Kez Ban: This girl is one of a kind, for sure. Her audition was actually really good, but tonight she had a bit of a cold and her voice was really flat.
Briana Oakley: I, again, do not know the song she sang, but she did good! She is a young girl and you can tell in her voice, but that doesn't really matter. She reminds me of someone but I can't quite but my finger on it... I'll let you know later in the season. :)
Both girls, and everyone else in their line, made it through to group rounds.

Group Rounds:
Just like the boys, the producers pick the groups. As one girl said, "The claws are coming out."

The Swagettes: Hit 'Em Up Style - Kamaria Ousley, Melinda Ademi, Candice Glover, Denise Jackson; They really sounded like a real group! That was so good! Each girl did very good. It showed; they all went through.

 



Raisin' Cane: Sin Wagon - I am a country girl, but these girls just look and sound like they are in a talent show. It was a little overwhelming with the "Southern Belle"-ness. But they make it through, with cupcakes, ice cream, and painted toenails, no less... those are gifts from Nicki?

Almost Famous: Somebody That I Used to Know - Savannah Votion, Lizz Weiss, Daysia Hall, J'Leigh Chauvin; They definitely made this song their own, but I think some of the girls lost some of the lyrics. They worked the night away to create the harmonies, but I don't think they pulled it off.
Only Daysia made it through, which is weird because I thought she was one of the worst from the group.

The Dramatics: If I Die Young - Kriss Mincey, Janel Stinney, Cristabel Clack, (there was one more unnamed group member); Well, they lived up to their name. That was no where like the original AT ALL. Janel was so worried about rehearsing the song, but she missed most of the lyrics. Although she kind of recovered and sang beautiful notes. Some how they pulled it off because they all stayed.

Urban Hue: American Boy - Seretha Guinn, Tenna Torres, Kiara Lanier, (4th member); I thought this group had it together, but Nicki was glad it was over. Sometimes mine opinions are just the exact opposite of the judges; how strange. Seretha is the only one to go home. That one blew my mind. I honestly thought she was going to say the only one to go through. Shocking.

The Pooh Snaps: Knock On Wood - Erin Christine, Zoanette Johnson, Lauren Bettes, Isabelle; I thought this rendition was kind of good actually. But Zoanette needs to go. All she did was scream and it was very unattractive. Of course. I have differing opinions again. Only Lauren was sent home.

Handsome Women: Somebody That I Used to Know - Shira Gavrielov, Alisha Dixon, Liz Bills, Courney Calle; Randy was shaking his head through this entire performance... Each of these girls sucked, but yet again were surprisingly good. I guess I'm just on the fence about them. The judges were not. Liz was the only one who went through. She has a very strange personality, but a good voice, which I guess is all you need? Shira was pissed and went back on stage to ask for an explanation and was given the answer that it just isn't her time.

Oh, hey, another Somebody That I Used to Know. Stepahni Schimel, Alex Delaney, Kalli Therinae, Holly Miller; This group chose to do Total Eclipse of the Heart, but changed songs 2 hours before the performance.  Only Kalli knew the words to the song, but that didn't matter. Stephanie and Holly were the two through.

The Dolly Chicks: Sin Wagon - Brandy Neely, Haley Davis, Britnee Kellogg, Kree Harrison; For the most part I thought they were good. Haley didn't stay up and rehearse with the girls so she had to write the lyrics on her WHOLE arm. I think Nicki brought up some very good points about being a group: staying up together to learn the lyrics, play the music, etc. But, as we've seen tonight, only your voice matters. Haley, Kree, and Britnee make it through to the next round.

The Misfits: Be My Baby - Kez Ban, Angela Miler, Janelle Arthur, Breanna Steer; I was very surprised by Kez Ban's audition, but tonight's performance was awful. Aside from her, the other 3 were spectacular. However, alllllll 4 go through. "Best Group of the day" according to Nicki.

Sometimes this show blows my mind. Let's see how my opinions and the judge' differ tomorrow!

Until next time, xoxo
Comment your thoughts!

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Hollywood Week: The Boys (Night 2)

Tonight wraps up Hollywood week for the guys. Tonight they perform solos, then the group will be cut again in groups of eight.

For the first group, Paul Jolley, Lazaro Arbos, and Curtis ??? somebody who is from STL. (This is when I really need DVR!!! So I can rewind and have the right thing!) [PS after looking this up on Google, I found his name is Curits Finch Jr. I would still like DVR, though.] Paul sang Carrie Underwood's "Blown Away." Behind stage he was a mess, as well as on stage. He wasn't very confident in himself and kept saying he didn't want to go home, which oddly enough makes me want to send you home. Lazaro sang "Edge of Glory" by Lady Gaga. I, personally, did not like his rendition. I still empathize with his story of having a stutter, but I don't care for him and would like to see him leave. Last featured from this group was Curtis Finch Jr. He performed "Jar of Hearts" by Christina Perri. I thought this was way too theatrical, and he kind of spoke some of the words instead of sang them. But, I am not a judge, so I have no say who goes through and who doesn't. I would have sent all three of these gentlemen home, but they are through one more round.

The next group featured Devin Velez with "What a Wonderful World," Gupreet Sarin aka "The Turbanator" with "Georgia on My Mind," Cortez Shaw, and Matheus Fernandes with "Makes You Stronger." I REALLY liked Devin's song. He has a very nice and smooth voice. I would like to see him get onto the live show. Gupreet's was average. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either.  The next song, I did hate. This was the first time Matheus had performed with a live band. The first thing he says before the song is his name and age. He, again, points out the fact that he is not 12, he is just short. Nicki calls him out on it and says he needs to quit throwing a pity party. I totally agree with her. There is no reason to keep bringing it up. But on top of that, it just wasn't good.
Of the eight, Devin, Gupreet, Cortez, Adam made it through.

TL: Papa Peachez, TR: Matheus Fernandes, BL: Gupreet Sarin, BR: Cortez Shaw

Nicholas Mathes (Bruno Mars' "Locked Out of Heaven"), Papa Peachez (Lady Gaga's "You and I"), and Jimmy Smith (Dixie Chicks' "Landslide") were featured in the next group. I thought that Nicholas was not very good. He had stood out last night in prior rounds, but the tension just got to him. I thought he sounded pretty pitchy. I have not been a fan of Papa Peachez from the beginnin and nothing has changed tonight. I feel that his singing voice is too deep and forced. It is not quite nasally, but there is something about it that is not soothing. Jimmy I thought did fairly well. I have not noticed him in previous episodes, so I thought tonight was ok. Afterwards Nicki, again, commented on Papa's complacency. She said that his fire is completely gone. I would be fine with him being completely gone. She also said to the entire group "This was the time to fight for your life..." and if you didn't you are probably upset at yourself "and you should be."
Nicholas and Papa were the only two to go home.

Nick Bottington is the first up for the next group. I didn't realize he got cut during Hollywood Week last season, but after they showed a clip, I remembered I liked him! I do not know the song he is playing, but he has made the decision to play the piano himself; I enjoyed it. Charlie Askew, the kid with social issues, chose Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know." I thought it would be kind of bad, but it really wasn't. It was not like the original because he wasn't as raspy. He may have gotten past some of his social-awkwardness: Nicki said she was obsessed with him and he replied "Baby, I could say the same thing." Not going to lie, my jaw dropped.
Nick, Mathany, one of the "feminine" guys from the Country Queen group, and Charlie were asked to stay for one more round.

L: Curtis Finch Jr., M: Burnell Taylor, R: Marvin Caderon

Burnell Taylor also sang "Jar of Hearts" and I do not like it. I liked him in other rounds, but this is just not doing it for me. He pronounced "time" as "ti-i-i-i-i-me." Marvin Caderon also sang this song, but this one was actually good. I liked it, not as much Perri's obviously. They both got through, though. =/

Micah Jonhson chooses Randy Travis' "I Told You So" which is one of my favorite songs. A favorite song sung by my favorite contestant. Yay! =) Micah did not sing as powerful as some of the other things he has done before. I think it was a good rendition, but Mariah expected more out of him. SHOCKING!!!!!! They booted him! My heart is literally broken. And then on top of that some of my other favorites are sent home: Gabe Brown, Sanni, Nate Tao. What is this world coming to! Hopefully my fav girls will stay next week!

Until next time, xoxo
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Hollywood Week: The Boys (Night 1)

It's here! It's here! It's here! The most intense week of the contestants' lives. 20 guys and 20 girls will be chosen to be featured on the live competition, but first they'll have to go through the dreaded Hollywood rounds. This is Hollywood Round! 

This year, the girls and guys are separated. We only get to see the guys perform tonight/this week. This is sure to be a talented group of guys. The first round is a group of 10 singing a capella. They will face their judgement on the spot.

First up is one of my fav's, Micah Johnson. He and three others in his group got through. Other fav's Nate Tao, Gabe Brown, and "The Turbinator" made it through as well in other groups. In another group Karl Skinner (Missouri Native!) was a key singer, but was sent home. Following him was another of my favorites, "The Singing Doctor."

Cortez Shaw, who we did not see during auditions, sang Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You." I thought that it was a pretty decent version, and I would have seen him through. Obviously the some of the judges thought different. Nicki thought it was a hideous rendition and said she wanted to send him home immediately. But, she was outweighed and Cortez got through.

Lazaro Arbos is up next. He is the one who has a terrible stutter. It took him a minute to say the name of his song... "Angels," one of my favorite songs. I didn't think he did well. I would cut him. Keith sends him through because it is miraculous how he can sing so clearly, but not speak. He, along with half of the guys, gets to move the next round.

And what is the next round??? Groups! It is the most stressful of the challenges, but I love them. And this year there is a new rule: the producers pick which group you are in. This is a big deal. Introductions and alliances have been made, and the producers just flipped their world. They have less than 24 hours to remember lyrics, choreograph a routine, and pull it all together.

The Math-Heads: This group includes Matheus who is vertically challenged. They choose "Somebody to Love." Of course they don't do as good as the Glee version, but it is good. Nicki asks them one by one to step forward and finally tells them they are through, in a British accent no less.

Normal Hills: Johny Keyser is in this group. He is a returning contestant, so he knows how this all goes. BUTTTTTT, he forgets the words during the performance, along with everyone else in his group. This, obviously, is a big no-no. If they go through, it will be a miracle for them.
They got their miracle... 3 of the 4 guys go through, obviously for their voices.

And all four of The Four Tones go through including Micah Johnson. This makes me happy. What doesn't make me happy are the groups that messed up "What Makes you Beautiful" and "Don't You Want to Stay." Some of these people actually stayed.

B-Side: This group sings "Payphone" by Maroon 5. And they also don't know the words. I think if they did know the words, it wouldn't be any better. Randy called it a train wreck. Side note: One of the guys wears a turban, and Keith mentions, "I would be Keith Turban." I laughed. Well, they all went through, which is so strange.

Last Minute: It seems here is another group that can't remember the words!!!! Hello! One Direction! Not that difficult! I have a feeling these boys will not be as lucky as the previous group. "If the word 'wrongest' can be used, that was the wrongest choice." - Keith Urban

I don't know the name of this next group... they take a risk and sing "Payphone" a capella. They say no risk, no return. I thought it was actually really good, but the judges didn't like it. I guess they liked it well enough to send 3 of the 4 guys through to solos.

Mo-Flo: Tony Foster, Jr. stands out to me in this group; Burnell Taylor's voice is very 50's-ish to me; besides the few ending notes, I thought it was real good; would you look at that?! The two that I liked out of that group got to stay. I guess I do know what I'm talking about sometimes.

Super 55: This young group of guys didn't do so hot. You hear the judges say multiple times "close enough." And then they were off the beat by just a hair, so they were off the whole song. Sadnesssssss. While the guys all said that Lazaro was holding them back, he was sent through and two of his teammates got sent home.

Country Queen: Two of these guys are very fem and wear heels. The first guy, Lee, is not so good. And JDA, is kind of good. Joel, ok. As for Trevor, I thought he was good from the clips that I saw, but he missed almost every word. I think I think they are bad, but I can't tell for sure. For me, it was a poor song choice. I know it's not the live competition so they don't have to be too conscious about song choice, but I didn't like it. Awwwww shucks, the two country boys go home and the....eclectic....characters stay.

Yay! The youngest boys are up.
DKSK: David Leathers, who missed the live shows by one spot last season, is in this group. I distinctly remember wanting him and not Ebon to go through last season. Let's see how he does this go around. I think David did the best from what I could hear. Kayden didn't do so well, and my other favorite, Sanni, did ok from what I heard. Sanni and David make it through, but Kayden and the other boy (whose name starts with a K...that's all I know) went home.

Oz: Frankie, Charles, Papa Peachez, Adam. DRAMA. Oh jeez. Frankie is crying behind stage like a little girl. I hope he goes home. So drama behind stage and on stage apparently. Frankie still seemed so depressed, Papa was...Papa, Adam, I just don't like him, and Charles was fabulous. The drama continues to post-song critique when discussing how they meshed and worked together. The "big personalities" made it a problem. And Frankie is the only one who is sent home. Not was I was expecting, but I'll take it. Oh, ps, more drama. Mariah starts crying because she feels bad for Frankie. Boo hoo.

Well ending with Frankie walking away crying and mouthing was an interesting way to end the show. At least there is still tomorrow to finish up the boys with solos.

Remember to follow @AmericanIdol on Twitter and like the Facebook page.

Until next time, xoxo

(photos pulled from American Idol Twitter and Facebook pages)

A Tale of Two Cities: San Antonio & Long Beach Auditions

This is the last week of auditions!!! This, by far, is the most unimportant part of the show to watch. I can't wait until next week when the "real competition" gets into full swing. Let's get on with the show!

Vincent Powell: This is a returning contestant, but I don't remember him! :( I bet seeing his idol, Mariah, he will do swell! He starts with "Rock Me Baby" and sounds a lot like Bruno Mars. Keith says he is good but needs to find himself. I think even though he sounds like Bruno Mars, he doesn't necessarily have to make an album like that. Nicki advises to make a gospel album, which would work well for him. Of course he goes to Hollywood. Can't wait to hear more from him and see if Randy makes him nervous with another big ol' sip outta his drink.

Duo - Derek and David: They can't talk well together, I hope they sing well together.... nope. Judges shaking their heads with a million no's. One had a way deep voice and one had a way high voice. Of course they think they sound good and are arguing with the judges. But "not trying to be difficult." So awkward. And Nicki brings it back and ACTUALLY has something positive to say and sounds smart. I like her. Oh, hey, they are STILL arguing. Sadly, for the brothers, they didn't make it to Hollywood. They said the judges were rude, but I 100% disagree. They were so professional, but obviously these brothers are numb-skulls.

This next girl comes in with a bandeau on. A little scandalous, but not like Bikini Girl! She's a single mom but American Idol means the world to her. She sings "At Last." I like Julia Demato's from Season 2, but this girl is GOOD. Obviously the judges think so, too, because they just let her sing on and on. They say she is a natural performer, and has a lot of life going on, organic. She gets a big yes for a big voice! I'm glad she proved me wrong. I thought she was a little slutty, probably sounded awful, and should go home. I'm excited to see her next week in Hollywood.

Christabel Clack - Here comes the family girl. She's way cute and so is her family. She is 29 so this is here last chance to audition. =/ She chooses Alicia Keys for her audition song, and it pays off. She has a beautiful tone and sings a few additional runs. "I know you, I get you, I love you." I completely agree with Mariah. She did real good.

Ann - Ann was nominated by her husband to audition and Randy visits them. I still think this nomination thing is weird, but she was silly and excited so it was ok...this time. Ann sings Faith Hill. I don't really care for her. Of course Faith's was much better, but the judges seem to like her. To me, she wasn't as soulful has Faith Hill, but the judges put her through. I honestly think she won't make it that far. But who knows?

Victoria Acosta - Mariachi!!!!! But auditions with Fergi... I don't like it. She has a good voice, but 1. I hate Fergi, and 2. her Spanish accent would sound SO PRETTY with something else. Keith said he was waiting for something else and I agreeeeeee. She is asked to sing mariachi, and she kicked it! They made a connection with that. But mariachi is not going to get her too far. She needs to find a way to connect with people with better song choices.

Wanted Bandits - Hahahahaha these people have a chance at being good, but totally fail. Nicki says it best with "EEEK."

Papa Peaches - A Big Black Woman Trapped In A White Boy's Body. Whoa. This will be interesting. He sings an original... I can't tell what this is. It's very strange. Whoa! He threw in a cuss word. Awkward. ...I think: No? Even the judges' thoughts are confusing. I have no idea where this is going. Well, it was a 2/2 vote and Randy changed his vote and let him through. I just can't get over how "original" that was.

Sanni - This 16 year old is adorable. He is a choreographer who wants to be a performer...and a great role model!!!! Presh. He chooses...MJ!! You can tell he is young when he sings but it is really good. He has a lot of confidence and stage presence. I love him!!!! I want to put him in my pocket! "Runs and Riffs!" I would have never have guessed that was an MJ song, he definitely has his own style and I can't wait to see more next week.

Adam - I don't want to be rude, but he sounds like a girl. I'm not going to like him. He has a great voice; he kind of reminds me of last year's Joshua Leddet because he is so soulful and gospel-ly. He says his inspiration is Etta James... and he kind of sounds like her... LIKE A GIRL. But they gave him a standing ovation because he WAS good. In my opinion, I won't be voting for him because I don't like his personality. Oh, well.

There was a boy who sang in the bathroom and decided there to audition. So bad. I don't even want to talk about it. NEXT.

Stephanie - She has a band named YOLO, how nice. ..... This girl is nuts! She sings screamo, broke something, and is flipping them off the entire time, and walked out. That was the first time I've ever heard screamo on AI. I don't like it.

(top left: Briana Oakly, bottom left: Micah Jonshon, bottom right: Metheus)

 

Micah Johnson - Micah had a tonsillectomy and the doctors hit some nerves and now he speaks with an impediment. I sympathize with him so much, I had a tonsillectomy very recently and I was so nervous something like that would happen. That only happens to 1 in 100,000 patients. He opens his mouth to sing and I am literally sitting here bawling my eyes out. You couldn't even understand him speak, but his singing voice was clear, beautiful, and so.... indescribable. What and inspiration. I am so shocked and cannot believe what I just heard. Oh my God. I am rooting for him.

Briana Oakly - she is 16 and was bullied for being on t.v. :( Which is so dumb, because she was singing and being cool, why would someone bully a star? Kids are dumb. I hope they realize how awful they are, because she is amazing. She has such a tenderness about her voice, and sings with joy. I really respect her for coming back to the screen and continuing her dream even though people made fun of her for it. She just brings a smile to my face. The judges have nothing but good things to say about her: poised, light, control, natural talent.

Matheus - He was also bullied because he was short, not like shorter than normal, but like little person short without the hormonal/dna disorder. But music has lead him through the struggles. He chooses "Change is Going to Come" and it is reallllll smooth. Smooth. Smooth. That's all I can describe it as. And the judge's agree with me with a unanimous yes. What a precious moment.

One more night of auditions! And then we are on to Hollywood Week!
Remember to Watch Wed/Thurs at 7 p.m.!
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Comment your opinions about the singers below!
Until next time, xoxo

Born on the Bayou: Baton Rouge Auditions

I'm all snuggled up with my kitties ready for more debates between Mariah and Nicki! Let's see what happens tonight down in the bayou aka Baton Rouge!

So the first constestant, Megan Miller, just got in an accident 3 days ago?! She has so much strength. There is no way I could ever audition, especially with a broken leg. I have to admit she is pretty good. I was expecting her to be one of those pretty girls who thought she was good at everything. Randy says she's a natural, but I can't see her winning. =( Oh, well, she's got spunk and "rolls with the punchs" says Nicki. She's through and we'll see what happens in the next round.

Seemingly Dark Mystery Man: Oh Charlie looks like a silly. He's "socially awkward." I suspect he will be good based on the background music playing lol. He chooses Queen for his audition. I can't tell if he's good or not because I don't know the song! I think he sounds like he's from the 50's or 60's? I'm proud of him for auditioning because of disorder, but I do not feel that he is right for the show. To me it is a mystery as to how he got 4 yes's. Sometimes this show surprises the hell out of me.

I am confused about this whole nomination thing? I just think that Randy going to random places and bringing people (who by the way have been teenagers so far) to the auditions is just weird. I mean, if it's your dream to be a singer, why wouldn't you just audition for yourself? I don't get it. But, on the flip side, the girl is pretty frickin' good. She got the golden ticket!

Ew, I hate the sucky people. And these people suck. Man in a chicken suit and a girl clucks like a chicken. I don't know what's wrong with people. Thank goodness it was only a short reel-clip and we can move on to more decent people... or what I suspect to be decent.

For his Grandpa: Oh, Paul succeeds in being better than the previous singers. He does have a "calling" as he puts it. I could most definitely here him on the radio. He did good with Rascal Flatts' "Don't Let Go." Mariah says it was effortless, and I agree. OOOOOHHH and his family is too cute. Cute families deserve a golden ticket.

This boy is too excited. He SAYS he has an alter-ego, but doesn't. Nicki to the rescue with a nickname! MUSHROOM. His performace is too much. Maybe he's on mushrooms? Literally laughed out loud at Keith --> "He is a fun guy." Fun Guy = Fungi. This audition is so weird. Nicki runs her finger through 'Shroom's hair. Strange. It goes without saying that he would never get a ticket. But he still thinks Nicki is a Doll. Don't we all?

Yay! I already love this doctor singer, Calvin. He is a cutie patootie. B-E-A-U-TIFUL smile. He is so good. I think he sounds a little bit like Brian McKnight? In Love. If he goes through, he will be my Lee DeWyze. (He was my number one fav on season 9.) But that may be a little premature. He is happy happy happy. And he is followed by some very, very good female singers! I love nights like this where they actually show the talent.

Nicki is melting in the hot LA weather. She is getting ready to be cooled down by a Firefighter! First thing out of her mouth: You got a girlfriend? Hahahaha! He sings and sounds like a wonderous Southern Man. Here's their song advice: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGdWmexwJok. That would be fun. PS I think his regular talking voice sounds like Channing Tatum, I think that will earn him a few votes later on.

Eye Opener: Burnell Jones, Katrina victim, is up. He comes from a very musical family so I suspect he is going to have some God-given talent. Wow! I was right. Ususally someone this good they just stop, but he just keeps going and going and going. Wonderful. He has talent, stage presence, confidence. He made Mariah cry! I can see him being on the show and I WILL cry when he has a band and back up singers behind him. I'm ready for the goosies.

Ready for next weeks auditions! Remember to watch Wednesdays and Thursdays 8/7c
Follow the judges for live tweeting: @KeithUrban, @YO_RANDYJACKSON, @MariahCarey, @NICKIMINAJ, @RyanSeacrest. Until next week, xoxo